San Francisco Workshop Resource: the CNC Learning Path

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This Instructable is for Autodesk employees who are workshop users at Pier 9. If this does not describe you, skip to steps 7, 10, and 11 for resources, software, and other guides to help you learn CNC
concepts and CAM skills wherever you are.

Do you want to build CNC (Computer Numerical Control) skills, but don’t know where to start? Are you an experienced machinist looking to develop new skills? For learners of all levels, the Pier 9 CNC Learning Path is for you!

This
Instructable will lead you through each step of our unique CNC Learning Path,
from training courses to one-on-one skill checks to machine classes.
Our comprehensive list of learning resources will help you build a breadth of knowledge along the way. Through the Path, you will learn the fundamental theory behind CNC machining, get
acquainted with the CNC capabilities at the Pier, and then program your
own part using our intuitive Computer Aided Machining (CAM) software.

We welcome
everyone, from beginners to more advanced users, to join us at Pier 9 to build this valuable skill set. Each class is a building block for the
next, so remember to take your time, master each step before moving on, and enjoy the learning process!

Step 1: Take General Workshop Safety

The second course is intended to introduce Autodesk's Pier 9 workshop and train
new users and tour guides about the shop hazards, safety protocols,
training programs and resources at the workshop. This course is required to gain access to the Pier 9 workshops and labs.

Step 2: Manual Mill Course

The manual mill is used to precisely cut and shape blocks of metal,
drill and cut slots, grooves, and pockets, as well as chamfer/fillet
edges and create counterbores. It's important to start with a manual process before getting into computer programming, so that you understand the basic mechanical operation of cutting in metal as well as the cutting forces and feeds and speeds for various materials. Check out Appendix B in Peter Smid's CNC Programming Handbook, Third Edition, for an accurate feeds and speeds table. We have a copy of this book in the CNC shop.

After the course, dive in and make two or three things on the manual mill.

Step 3: CNC 1: Concepts of CNC at Pier 9

In this class, you'll gain a foundational understanding of what CNC really is, what CNC machines can and cannot do, and how the CAD to CAM process works. Learn technical concepts like
speeds and feeds, milling tools, coordinate systems, toolpath types and
workholding strategies.

Step 5: CNC 3: Advanced CAM Programming

In this class, you'll build on the
toolpathing strategies from CNC 2. Practice multiple setups, part
flips, machining overhangs, planning for irregular stock, and
chamfering. This class will teach you the basic skills required to
program the certification part in the presence of an instructor. Bring your laptop with the software installed.

Step 6: Skill Check #1: Resources for Practice

After you've completed CNC 1-3, you'll want to practice on your own before scheduling Skill Check #1 with the CNC Lead Instructor. In this skill check, you'll be expected to define the key terms from CNC 1-3, as well as program the certification part from scratch in either Fusion 360 or Inventor HSM.

You'll find the list of key terms, as well as a copy of the 'Concepts of CNC at Pier 9' presentation, attached to this step.

Also read the CNC Handbook, Chapters 1-4, 7, 9, and 10. You also have a printed copy in your red binder.

The skill check will take an hour and a half to two hours. Bring your printed setup sheets with you. If you want to focus on CNC machining on the DMS or the Shopbot, you've set yourself up for success and you're done with the CNC Learning Path. Take the machine classes and get started on a simple project while the operation procedure is still fresh in your mind.

For users who want to progress forward and machine in metal, you'll receive the password for the Haas Mill Safety/Basic Use course after you pass this skill check.

Step 8: CNC 5: Haas Mill Safety/Basic Use Course

The Haas CNC vertical mill
is capable of cutting metal in 2.5D or 3D with high precision. Students
will learn the basics of safely operating the machine, including:
startup, inserting tools, measuring tools, locating the workpiece,
loading a program, and safely running a program.

Step 9: Skill Check #2

Now, it's time to email the CNC Lead Instructor to schedule a time for Skill Check #2--machining the certification part on the Haas Mill.

You'll get the machine for the entire day, so take your time, follow one step at a time, and have a blast!

Step 10: Building Skills

Congratulations! You have an aluminum object in your hand that you programmed and machined, completing the loop from concept to practice!

So now what?

It's time to get started on your own projects. Make sure to keep your designs simple in the beginning: take gradual steps from 2.5D to 3D machining strategies, and start with just one or a few setups.